German federal & state govts agree to shutter most shops, clubs, churches

Federal and state governments in Germany agreed to sweeping rules, shutting down everything from non-essential shops to bars, clubs, theatres, brothels, museums, and churches, Reuters reports. The measures are being taken in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus, the federal government said.

A statement published on Monday said that grocery shops, markets, banks, pharmacies, and delivery services would remain open. Restaurants and other eating establishments would generally be allowed to be open between 6am and 6pm.

Shops that remain open would have to implement heightened hygiene measures and monitor their entrances in order to avoid long lines.

According to the government, the new guidelines aim “to further limit social contacts in public spaces in response to the corona epidemic in Germany.”